Download Types of hearing loss - Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation

Types of Hearing Loss
Type of loss:
Conductive hearing loss
This means that there is a problem in the outer/middle ear which is preventing sound from
being transmitted to the inner ear.
Sensorineural hearing loss
This means that there is a problem with the inner ear (cochlea) or the nerve pathways
from the ear. This type of hearing loss is often caused by damage to the hair cells within
the cochlea.
Mixed hearing loss
A mixed hearing loss means that there is a problem with both the outer/middle ear and
the inner ear (the cochlea).
Severity of loss:
Mild (20-40 deciBels)
Someone with a mild hearing loss will probably have minimal difficulty with conversation
in quiet. However they often experience problems hearing in background noise and in
groups.
Moderate (41-70 deciBels)
Someone with a moderate hearing loss may have problems with conversation in quiet
places as well as noisy places.
Severe (71-95 deciBels)
Someone with a moderate hearing loss may have problems with conversation in quiet
places as well as noisy places.
Profound (over 95 deciBels)
Someone with a profound hearing loss will not usually rely on hearing as their primary
method of communication.
24042 V3/Audiology/TSDFT/01.17/Review Date 01.19